Authors (including presenting author) :
CHENG CK (1), LUI SW (2), CHAN OY (3), CHAN SH (4), TO WY (5), WONG PM (6)
Affiliation :
(1) Cardiac Care Unit, Medicine and Geriatrics, Kwong Wah Hospital
Introduction :
Venoarterial Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation (V-A ECMO) is critical for patients in cardiogenic shock from conditions like myocardial infarction and myocarditis. At Kwong Wah Hospital (KWH), a non-ECMO center, ECMO procedures are infrequent, presenting challenges in maintaining nursing proficiency. Traditional training at KWH relies on paper-based guides and photographs, which may limit long-term skill retention and preparedness for high-stress situations.
Objectives :
This project evaluates the effectiveness of a multimodal training approach, incorporating a quick guide and video aids, in enhancing ECMO priming skills, knowledge retention, confidence and reducing stress among cardiac nurses at KWH.
Methodology :
A trail was conducted in the Cardiac Care Unit (CCU) of KWH during Aug 2024 to Dec 2024 . Ten registered nurses were randomly assigned to either the control group (n=5), receiving traditional paper-based training, or the experimental group (n=5), receiving multimodal training with a quick guide and video tutorials. The experimental training included theoretical instruction supported by video demonstrations. Outcome measures assessed before and after training included a 20-item knowledge test, a 15-item procedural competency checklist during an ECMO priming exercise, priming efficiency measured by time taken, confidence and stress levels using a Likert-scale survey, and training satisfaction through a questionnaire. Data were analyzed to compare improvements between the two groups.
Result & Outcome :
The experimental group showed significant enhancements across all outcomes compared to the control group. Knowledge retention increased to 98.2% in the experimental group versus 85.4% in the control group. Procedural competency was 94-100% compliance in the experimental group, compared to 76-97% in the control group. Priming efficiency improved, with the experimental group completing the procedure in an average of 22.4 minutes compared to 36.6 minutes in the control group. The experimental group exhibited significantly higher confidence levels and notably lower stress levels compared to the control group. Additionally, 100% of the experimental group reported high satisfaction with the training, compared to 60% in the control group.
A multimodal training program integrating a quick guide with video aids significantly enhances ECMO priming knowledge, competency, and confidence while reducing stress and improving efficiency among cardiac nurses at KWH. Adopting diverse educational tools in non-ECMO centers can optimize training effectiveness, ultimately enhancing patient safety and outcomes.
